Hundreds Rescued After Unprecedented Snowstorm on Mount Everest's Eastern Kangshung Face

An unseasonably severe snowstorm and thunderstorms in early October 2025 caught hundreds of hikers off guard on the eastern wall of Kangchenjunga, triggering a large-scale rescue operation. The extreme weather, which began on October 3rd and persisted through the weekend, trapped trekkers in the remote Karma Valley.

Approximately 350 individuals were safely guided back to Qudang township by local villagers and rescue teams. However, an additional 200 hikers remained stranded at high altitudes, though they maintained communication with rescuers. The storm brought daily rain and snow, completely obscuring views of Kangchenjunga and creating hazardous conditions. Erik Wen, one rescued hiker, reported experiencing continuous precipitation and a lack of visibility, noting that three members of his 18-person team suffered from hypothermia despite being equipped for the trek. Chen Geshuan, another traveler, described the weather as abnormal for October and occurring with sudden intensity.

October is typically a stable month for trekking in the Kangchenjunga region, offering clear skies and mild temperatures, with daytime temperatures usually ranging from 10°C to 14°C and dropping to -10°C at night at higher altitudes. This year's event deviated sharply from the norm, with snowfall accumulating up to a meter in parts of the Karma Valley. The Karma Valley, a popular route during China's eight-day National Day holiday, experienced an influx of visitors, exacerbating the situation when the storm hit.

Rescue efforts were significantly challenged by the deep snow and difficult terrain, with helicopter support limited by thin air and wind conditions. Local villagers and rescue teams worked tirelessly to clear snow-covered paths and restore access. This incident serves as a potent reminder of nature's unpredictable power, even in regions and seasons generally considered stable. It underscores the critical importance of robust weather monitoring, timely communication, and comprehensive preparedness for adventure tourism in extreme environments.

The event also highlights the potential for increased risk during peak holiday periods when more people are present, potentially straining local resources in emergencies. The accounts of hypothermia and the struggle to maintain shelter emphasize the vulnerability of even well-equipped individuals to rapidly changing and severe weather conditions. The advice to stay informed about forecasts, be prepared for sudden changes, engage experienced local guides, and adhere to safety protocols is more crucial than ever for anyone venturing into such formidable landscapes. The cross-border impact of this weather system, which also caused deadly landslides and floods in neighboring Nepal, further emphasizes the interconnectedness of Himalayan weather patterns and their potential for widespread disruption.